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336 Inmate Deaths in NJ Prisons: Overdoses Lead Toll

12/23/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A New Jersey corrections ombudsman report shows 336 inmates died in state prisons from 2018 to 2024, mostly from natural causes including heart disease, cancer, and COVID-19.
Overdoses accounted for more deaths than suicides and homicides combined.
There were 13 suicides, mostly in disciplinary units.
The Department of Corrections said it investigates all deaths and is implementing measures to improve care.
The American Civil Liberties Union welcomed the report.

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Story summary

A New Jersey corrections ombudsman report shows 336 inmates died in state prisons from 2018 to 2024, mostly from natural causes including heart disease, cancer, and COVID-19.
Overdoses accounted for more deaths than suicides and homicides combined.
There were 13 suicides, mostly in disciplinary units.
The Department of Corrections said it investigates all deaths and is implementing measures to improve care.
The American Civil Liberties Union welcomed the report.